This week in Petroplex Region history.
Jeb Bush: Born February 11, 1953, in Midland, Texas
John Ellis “Jeb” Bush, born on February 11, 1953, in Midland, Texas, served as the 43rd governor of Florida from 1999 to 2007. A member of the Bush political family, he grew up in Houston, graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, and began his career in real estate development in Florida. Bush’s political journey included a term as Florida’s Secretary of Commerce and two gubernatorial victories in 1998 and 2002. During his eight-year tenure, he focused on Everglades conservation, medical malpractice caps, Medicaid privatization, and education reform, advocating for vouchers and school choice. Despite an unsuccessful 2016 presidential bid, Bush remains a figure associated with conservative principles and political involvement. His connection to Midland, Texas, marks the place of his birth before the family’s move to Houston during his childhood.
Hal Stone Dean (October 30, 1922 – February 12, 2011): Death Commemoration
Hal Stone Dean, left guard for the Los Angeles Rams (NFL 1947-1949), passed away on February 12, 2011. Born in Wooster, Ohio, he achieved fame at Ohio State, contributing to the 1942 championship team. Hal served in WWII, earning Paratroop Wings and two Bronze Star Medals. He played three NFL seasons, joining the 1949 Western Division Championship team. Transitioning to a distinguished oil and gas career, Hal settled in Midland in 1960, exploring with the Petroleum Corporation. He inducted a teammate into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Hal’s legacy includes the Ohio State Varsity O Hall of Fame, Wayne County Sports Hall of Fame, and contributions to Stanford University.
